Understanding Car Accident Cases: What Percentage Go to Trial?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident and are considering legal action, one of the first questions you might ask is whether your case will end up in court. The idea of going to trial can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and insurance claims.

Fortunately, most car accident cases are resolved through settlement rather than litigation. Still, there are important factors that can push a case into the courtroom. In this article, we’ll explore what percentage of car accident cases actually go to trial, why some cases do, how long a trial typically lasts, and why having a law firm like Henson Fuerst can make all the difference.

How Many Car Accident Cases Go to Trial?

Statistical data indicates that only a small fraction of car accident cases proceed to trial. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, approximately 4% to 5% of personal injury cases, including those involving car accidents, proceed to trial. This means that over 90% of these cases are settled out of court.

Why Do Some Car Accident Cases Go to Trial?

Several factors can lead to a car accident case proceeding to trial:

1. Disputes over liability. When there is a disagreement about who was at fault for the accident, the case may require judicial intervention to be resolved.
2. Inadequate settlement offers. If the insurance company offers a settlement that the injured party deems insufficient, they may opt for a trial to seek fair compensation.
3. Complex legal issues. Cases involving multiple parties, unclear liability, or significant damages may necessitate a trial to address the complexities involved.
4. Insurance company tactics. Some insurance companies may delay or deny claims, prompting the need for legal action to ensure rightful compensation.

How Long Does a Car Accident Trial Last?

The duration of a car accident trial can vary depending on several factors. One key element is the complexity of the case. More intricate situations involving multiple parties or complicated legal issues tend to take longer to resolve. Additionally, court scheduling plays a role, as the availability of court dates can delay proceedings. The pre-trial phase, which includes motions and the discovery process (gathering and exchanging evidence), can also add to the timeline. On average, a car accident trial may last from several days to a few weeks, though some cases can extend for months, especially if appeals are involved.

Car Accident Lawyers Ready to Go to Trial at Henson Fuerst

While the vast majority of car accident cases are settled outside of court, some do proceed to trial due to disagreements over fault, low settlement offers, or complicated legal issues. Trials can be lengthy, but in some situations, they are necessary to obtain just compensation. 

At Henson Fuerst, our trusted car accident lawyers are committed to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients. Unlike some firms that prefer to settle quickly, our attorneys are fully prepared to take a case to trial when a fair settlement isn’t offered. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident, we’re equipped and ready to go the distance to help ensure you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to by law.

Contact us today by submitting a form online or calling our office at (919) 781-1107 for a free legal consultation.